Butterfly Bayou (Butterfly Bayou #1) by Lexi Blake @authorlexiblake

Butterfly Bayou was a good start to what I'm sure will be a fantastic series. Lexi Blake delivered a remarkable and riveting romance brimming with scorching hot passion, angst, light-hearted humor, and all the feels. I enjoyed my visit to Papillion, Louisiana, where the sexy sheriff and single dad, Armie LaVigne, found the perfect woman who turned his world upside down ~ Lila Daley.  She comically and unexpectedly fell into this hot lawman's life, courtesy of a speed trap guarded by an alligator affectionately named Otis. Working as a nurse in Dallas, Lila witnessed a horrific tragedy involving her friend and colleague that left her (and me) completely shattered. Hoping to escape the nightmares of the past, she decided to leave the hustle and bustle of a big city ER and restart life in Papillion, as the town's nurse practitioner. Trying to fit in with the locals, and struggling to overcome several challenges, the last thing Lila wanted was to fall for Armie. Much to her surprise, he and his daughter, Noelle, were exactly what she needed. Their connection was instantaneous. The chemistry between them sizzled. But despite their intense feelings, Armie and Lila fought the attraction until they deliciously surrendered. A journey towards love that was extremely bumpy, but well worth the wait, I relished every moment spent with this couple.   I adored Lila. Strong-willed, compassionate, courageous ~ she was a heroine I truly admired. A woman so riddled with guilt over tragic circumstances that were out of her control, her sufferings pulled at my heartstrings. Rigid at first, Lila was all business when it came to her career, yet possessed a gentler side, especially when it came to her patients, Armie, and Noelle. Watching her character grow, gain confidence, and find the courage to fall love was touching. Armand "Armie" LaVigne was a loving and a swoon-worthy hero. A single dad, who was very protective when it came to his disabled daughter, Armie was also dealing with his fair share of guilt from the past. Despite all the complications in his life, meeting Lila was a game-changer, as his attraction to her was fierce and intense. His persistent chase to win her heart and earn trust was stirring. However, he frustrated me for a bit when his commitment to Lila faltered when a situation with Noelle arose. Regardless of the nerve-wracking relationship tensions, Armie managed to win back my affections eventually as he became the strong man Lila needed. In turn, Lila's love forever changed both Arnie and Noelle’s lives for the better. Butterfly Bayou was more than just small-town contemporary romance. There's lots of angst, drama, and tension to savor, as well as several story-lines that surrounded this couple and secondary characters, which had me on edge. All in all, this first installment in the Butterfly Bayou Series was an enjoyable, highly emotional, and sexy read. Amazon: https://amzn.to/327prnx AppleBooks: https://apple.co/34gSwhA Amazon Worldwide: http://mybook.to/ButterflyBayouLB Nook: http://bit.ly/2PAZCcC Kobo: http://bit.ly/2N8yu38 Google Play: http://bit.ly/2JG9KgE Amazon Paperback: https://amzn.to/2C9nAUl I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this publication.

Absolution (Disenchanted 3) by L.D. Davis

Since reading Disenchanted, I became addicted to the drama surrounding Marco and Lydia's lives. So much passion, heartache, and regret consumed these characters in the first two installments, I was eagerly awaiting its conclusion and incredibly anxious for this finale. Absolution did not disappoint and, in my opinion, the best read of the series. An erotic romance filled with extreme relationship angst L.D. Davis set me on a volatile roller-coaster ride, which had me on edge, as she both shattered and mended my heart. A testament to this author's talents, my emotions were twisted into knots, and I loved every nail-biting and soul-crushing moment. In the previous installments, I've had my fair share of issues with Lydia, as I was both fascinated and extremely frustrated with her character. I understood she was consumed with guilt and regrets from the past, namely the unresolved problems with her sister and late husband. Her struggle to overcome those demons while falling for Marco pulled at my heartstrings as it undoubtedly affected their relationship. But it was difficult to sympathize with Lydia during the times she became too contentious and acted immaturely. However, the Lydia that appeared within this read was the heroine I wished for, and I fell in love with her. She evolved from a woman who repeatedly tried my patience to someone I truly admired. Despite her tragic circumstances, Lydia found the courage and inner strength to trust and fully open her heart to Marco. Falling in love with this sexy Italian was not without its challenges as some members of his family added to their mounting troubles. Their journey, although beautiful, was also heartbreaking, aggravating and incredibly messy at times. The more complications they faced, the more twisted my emotions became, and I savored every tension-filled second. A swoon-worthy and passionate hero with a heart of gold, I adored Marco. A man so full of love and hope, he was determined to pull Lydia away from her dark and joyless life, despite her ornery and stubborn attitude. Overly caring, I admired how he tended to his family's needs, especially his nieces, nephews, and Lydia's children. There was an intensity, a fierceness to his character that overwhelmed me - particularly the way he deeply loved his "Tesoro" - Lydia, his precious treasure. However, there were times his actions and bad choices wreaked havoc on my nerves. There was so much angst in this story-line, mostly when it came to dealing with his vile sister-in-law Celia clashing with Lydia that drove me completely insane, and I was beyond enraged. Regardless, Marco was amazingly gentle and loving, as he helped to heal Lydia's fragile heart and earn her trust.     To fully appreciate the true beauty of Marco and Lydia's tumultuous love story, you'll need to read this series in its entirety, as this is not a standalone novel. If you are looking for an emotional romance brimming with a fiery passion and angst, with a couple who strives for their well-deserved happily ever after, I highly recommend this series. Exquisitely written and with all the feels, L.D. Davis delivered a remarkable and unforgettable saga of destined love.  The release date for ABSOLUTION is April 25th  Add it to your TBR on Goodreads! https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/53153534-absolution I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this publication

The Priest (The Original Sinners #9) by Tiffany Reisz @8thcirclepress

My level of excitement for this release was immeasurable since I will never get my fill of Nora, Kingsley, and Søren. I am completely obsessed and fascinated by this unholy trio and one would think after nine installments, the story-lines would become stale, tiresome, or monotonous. Nothing could be further from the truth. With The Priest, Reisz once again penned a novel that consumed me from beginning to end, leaving me both satisfied with the story told, yet craving more. She is a siren whose call lures me deep into her kinky and taboo world, never wanting the experience to cease. A genius of an author who's gifted with the immense talent to create such fascinating characters I love to revisit. So, whether you are a long-time or newbie fan, this tale will not disappoint and is an outstanding addition to this beloved series.  For me, The Priest had a different vibe than the previous installments and I can't quite put my finger on exactly why. Perhaps it could be attributed to their departure from New York/Connecticut to Louisiana, coupled with the fact that the main characters are more mature and trying to settle into their new lives. Regardless, this story was exceptional, giving us insight into the more "coupley" relationship between Nora and Søren as well as the dark and shrouded mystery surrounding a dead priest, which is somehow linked to our Mistress. The major plot-line revolved around Nora and her new PI friend, Cyrus Tremont, as they take on the grueling task of investigating Father Ike's sudden and inexplicable suicide. The reasons why his last phone call made was to Nora's old NY phone number were unknown, and the secrets these two unraveled on their quest for the truth had me on constant pins and needles. The circumstances haunted me throughout this read and the effects they had on Nora pulled on my heartstrings. Also, we see a different, more vulnerable side of the confident and omniscient Søren. He’s struggling greatly while on a one-year suspension from the Jesuit order, after confessing to fathering Fionn. Seeing him in a different light, taking a step back from his church duties, I was happy to see more relationship time between him and Nora. However, Søren’s predicament had me beyond curious and frightfully concerned about the fate of all these characters. Brimming with suspense, passion, kink and witty banter, The Priest was by far one of the most intriguing and compelling stories within the series. Tiffany Reisz had me on edge, page after page, holding my breath with every plot twist and turn. Loved seeing some old friends such as Kingsley, Juliette, and the adorable Céleste, as well as the new characters of Cyrus, his fiancée Paulina and the bewitching Mercedes. Another magnificently written 10-star read, and I cannot wait for book 10!!    Click on book to purchase I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this publication via NetGalley

A Favor for a Favor (All In #2) by Helena Hunting @HelenaHunting #AFavorForAFavor #NetGalley

When it comes to hockey-themed romances, Helena Hunting is undoubtedly my absolute favorite author and having such great adoration for the Pucked couples, I wasn't sure the All In series could measure up. So thrilled that I was incredibly wrong. After devouring A Lie for A Lie, I was excited to jump into her upcoming release. A Favor for A Favor had everything I relish while reading one of this author's tales - A cast of colorful and looney characters; A broody-hot and lovable hero; A spirited and sassy heroine; Comical banter that had me chuckling as well as a captivating story-line brimming with sexual tension and off the charts slow-burning chemistry. From this couple's awkward beginnings to witnessing them fall hopelessly in love, I've enjoyed every moment of Bishop and Stevie's journey. Meeting RJ (Rookie) Bowman's little sister in the first installment, I immediately liked her spunky character. A recent graduate who's down on her luck, Stevie is determined to establish a career in the sports field as a physical therapist without the help of her famous brother. A strong-willed, intelligent, quirky, and witty tough gal who possessed a gentle and vulnerable side, she embodied everything I admire in a strong heroine. And when challenged to a face-off with her beyond vexing and contentious new neighbor Bishop, the plucky Stevie is not easily intimidated to go toe-to-toe with him. I love how she's fearless and unafraid to combat her belligerent (but funny) adversary. The banter between these two was hysterical. When Bishop suffers from an on-ice injury and in desperate need to speed up his recovery, Stevie is there to turn his misfortune into an opportunity to put her therapy skills to work. It's only a matter of time that these two enemies foster a friendship bursting with heaps of sexual tension, which eventually leads to something more. Bishop "Ship" Winslow was a hunk of a hockey player that I totally fell for, but I have to admit, it wasn't easy. First impressions of Ship were not favorable as he was judgy, offensive, abrasive and hot-headed. However, it didn't take me long to love him and see all the sweetness hidden beneath the brawn. A guy with loads of responsibilities and worries, Ship's priorities were his career as well as taking good care of his brother Nolan. Deep down, he was a big-hearted guy and once the animosity towards Stevie waned, it was a treat to see the loving, passionate, and gentle side of this hero. Together, they made for an adorable couple. Another fun and light-hearted romantic comedy from Hunting that I thoroughly enjoyed. This was a fantastic read. Flirty, sexy and amusing, A Favor for A Favor quickly became another favorite for me. I loved seeing some old friends from the Pucked series - now older and more mature - as well as getting to know some new and exciting characters. And Shippy's boxer shorts... absolutely ridiculous and hilarious. I can't wait to get my hands on the next book in the series.              Amazon US → https://amzn.to/31LPGjq CA → https://amzn.to/30zMMgT UK → https://amzn.to/2QlrVOr AU → https://amzn.to/2IhEofr Amazon Worldwide → mybook.to/aFavor4aFavor Add it to GoodReads → http://bit.ly/AFavor4aFavorGR I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this publication courtesy of the publisher

Love Me Tender (Bliss Cove #3) by Nina Lindsey

Unquestionably my favorite in the Bliss Cove series thus far, Love Me Tender was a sweetly romantic frenemies-turned-lovers tale that made my heart swell with delight. This highly anticipated third installment featured the feisty Rory and the delectable Grant - two completely opposite personalities whose sexual tensions teased me in the previous novels. Thrilled to be back in this quaint seaside town and true to Nina Lindsey's remarkable and magical writing style, this little gem was chock full of passionate moments, laughter, intense chemistry, and unforgettable beloved characters. I love a strong heroine, and Rory Prescott certainly possessed incredible strength. A career-focused woman who strives to make her way in the tech world, she faced several challenges in a new company while dealing with discrimination and harassment. But nothing could stop Rory's determination and grit, and I admired how she handled the unfair situation. Amid all the turmoil, this computer geek managed to open her tightly guarded heart to the handsome yet mysterious owner/chef of the Mousehole tavern, Grant Taylor. Grant was one heck of a swoon-worthy, overly sexy, and lovingly gentle hero. Like Rory, he struggled with difficult issues. In particular, the strained relationship involving his father. Grant had my sympathies seeing how, in my opinion, he was mistreated and belittled by his dad. However, Grant took it in stride, never waiving on what he wanted out of life. This couple was playfully combative, and through their comical banter, a blossoming and loving relationship grew. Grant brought out the best in Rory. She's stubborn and set in her ways, but seeing her tender and attentive side with Grant (which was hidden beneath her tough-girl outspoken demeanor) was heartwarming. In turn, she was everything Grant needed in a partner. Having to deal with the opinionated Taylor family and their constant criticism and disappointment in his life choices, Rory was his source of comfort and encouragement. Their beginnings may have been unconventional, and their relationship faced several obstacles, but the love they shared was strong, faithful, and completely genuine. Love Me Tender was an eloquently written light-hearted story that was low on angst but brimming with sizzling passion. The perfect read for fans of contemporary romances that I highly recommend. As always, I cannot wait for more from Nina Lindsey as her novels utterly consume me. She's an incredible storyteller and truly one of my favorites.    Click here to purchase

Winter Tales (The Original Sinners #8.7) by Tiffany Reisz

With Winter Tales, Tiffany Reisz proved once again why she is one of my most beloved authors. Her dynamic characters, their interwoven relationships, the intensity of the love they share, the darkness in their souls, the unraveling of secrets, the witty dialogue, and above all - the extreme kinkiness - happily lured me back into the Sinners world, never wanting the experience to end. Here, as with each publication, Reisz delivered sheer brilliance in her prose that left me both satisfied with these short stories, yet thirsty for more. She's cunning and genius in that regard - consistently feeding my addiction and curiosity when it comes to Søren, Nora, and Kingsley, while knowing there is so much more to explore when it comes to these characters. Reisz's unique and masterful writing style, coupled with several captivating story-lines, the Mistress of Erotica earned ten plus stars for this Christmas holiday-themed anthology.   December Wine - M/F Taking place after Søren and Nora's night of terror, this compelling novella featured Nora and Zach during their free-pass getaway in France. Nora is on a mission to seek out Kingsley’s long-lost son, Nicolas "Nico" Delacroix. Here we see some of the many conflicts a morose Nora is struggling with - a new and uncertain future that will include both Nico and Fionn (Zach and Grace's son fathered by Søren) and how their presence affects the trio. Their relationships may be forever changed, and Nora bears the weight of these worries on her shoulders. Sexy, steamy, and somewhat melancholy, the highly anticipated December Wine gave insight into these characters’ lives that I longed for since reading The Mistress. Also, it was an opportunity to learn more about the old soul that is Nico, who I absolutely adore. The Christmas Truce - M/F/M Set before The Siren, this little treat was a flashback to one passionate night shared between Søren, Nora, and Kingsley. An unforgettable ménage where the quarreling trio briefly set aside their grievances to enjoy the holiday and make their Christmas wishes come true. Be warned ~ this tidbit is off-the-charts erotic. But all kinkiness aside, there are several emotional and tearful moments laced throughout the novella. Poinsettia & Blood and Snow There are countless reasons why I adore all things Søren. His omnipotent and dominant personality has fascinated me since my first read of The Siren. Sadistic, enigmatic, charismatic and intense, he is the heart and soul of this series, in my opinion. A master manipulator, this is Søren's world as all other characters have no choice but to gravitate towards him. A true paradox, he is both savage and saintly. However, in these two short stories, we see a different side of Father Marcus Stearns in both the present day and in the past as a young man in the seminary. Seeing him conflicted, struggling, and vulnerable, added another layer to his multifaceted persona as he sought counsel from Mistress Magdalena (a cruel but witty Dominatrix, whose brutality rivals that of Søren's). Witnessing his fears, seeing his humanity, I fell in love with the mighty Søren all over again.   The Scent of Winter - M/M Of all the tales within this anthology, The Scent of Winter was, without a doubt, the most emotional. Never have I witnessed two characters so in love cause each other such tremendous pain. It's a common theme throughout the series, but for me, this was extraordinarily intense as their sorrow was gut-wrenching. For decades, Kingsley and Søren have both loved and loathed each other for a variety of reasons, and it is here where a major issue comes to an explosive head - as secrets are finally confessed, confronted, and resolved. Beautifully written and overly touching, this novella was truly a remarkable story. Merci Tiffany Reisz, for yet another outstanding read, as Winter Tales has joined the ranks as one of my most favorite reads of this year. I consumed this anthology not once, but twice before composing my thoughts for this review - it was that fantastic. Until the next release, I will mourn the loss of these characters and all their craziness. Another magnificent tale and a must-read for all Original Sinners fans! Kindle https://amzn.to/2PUSdoQ Paperback https://amzn.to/2WSVZ3q Hardcover https://amzn.to/33qyzEZ Audiobook https://amzn.to/2oYId2T